Greenville Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being accused of a criminal offense can have a major impact on your life, both personally and professionally. Building a solid defense is key to avoiding serious penalties and protecting your future.

A Greenville criminal defense lawyer could assist you during this challenging time. Our team of trial attorneys has years of experience representing individuals and businesses in private practice at the state and federal level. Contact Ellis Hinton, LLC, based in Greenville, servicing SC and beyond.

Types of Criminal Charges

If you violate the law, you risk being charged with a criminal offense. Criminal prosecutions can be classified as any of the following:

• Crimes against a person that results in physical harm
• Crimes against public and private property
• Inchoate crimes (crimes that were initiated but not completed)
• Statutory crimes prohibited by a statute
• Financial crimes where deception is involved for the offender to gain financially

Punishments for breaking the law can range from hefty fines to imprisonment and are based on the severity of the crime and what offense was committed.

Misdemeanor Versus Felony Offenses

Misdemeanor crimes are considered less consequential. South Carolina Section 16-1-20 provides the maximum punishment for each misdemeanor class. Based on severity, they are divided into three classes:

• Class A misdemeanors are more serious than Class C and can result in up to three years in jail and a fine
• Class B misdemeanors carry a maximum penalty of up to two years in jail and a fine
• Class C misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine
• Exempt misdemeanors have a maximum penalty of less than twelve months in jail and a fine of at least $500

Felony crimes are considered more severe. There are seven types of felony classes, and South Carolina Section 16-1-20 provides the maximum punishment for each:

• Class A, punishable by up to 30 years in prison
• Class B, a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison
• Class C, a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison
• Class D, a maximum sentence of 15 years
• Class E, punishable by up to 10 years in prison
• Class F carries a maximum sentence of five years
• Exempt felony has no specific classification or penalty

Those charged with a criminal offense can seek the counsel of a defense attorney in Greenville at Ellis Hinton. Our legal team is fully aware of the importance of understanding criminal classifications and penalties in order to navigate the legal process and build a solid defense.

Speak With a Criminal Defense Attorney in Greenville Today

Navigating the criminal law system independently can lead to confusion and a lack of strong representation. Our Greenville criminal defense lawyers will provide thorough legal knowledge and state or federal criminal justice experience that may be critical to your case.

Contact Ellis Hinton, LLC to discuss your charges with a dedicated legal professional and gain our collective experience as representatives of individuals and businesses in private practice.